Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake's 68th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner Unites Community

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake Hosts 68th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Resource Fair

As Thanksgiving approaches, the Baltimore Convention Center is set to envelop thousands in a warm embrace. On the eve of this cherished holiday, Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake will once again host its highly anticipated Annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Resource Fair on November 26th. Now in its 68th year, this tradition promises to be a heartwarming gathering of hope, connection, and community spirit.

From 11:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., it is expected that over 2,000 Baltimore residents will flock to the Convention Center not just for a meal but for a sense of togetherness. The atmosphere will be filled with the delightful scents of roasted turkey and an array of delectable desserts, as guests are served by a dedicated army of more than 300 volunteers and Goodwill staff members.

Lisa Rusyniak, the President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, emphasizes the impact of this event, stating, "This event shows what's possible when compassion meets action. Every year, we see lives touched—not just by the food, but by the dignity and hope that come with knowing someone cares."

A Feast for All

Guests can look forward to a feast that includes a staggering 2,500 pounds of turkey, which equates to approximately 300 turkeys graciously donated by Giant Food Stores. The meal will also feature 2,400 slices of cake, 60 pounds of pork shoulder, and an impressive 87 gallons of milk.

However, the generosity does not end with just the meal. Each guest in need will also receive a warm winter jacket, sourced from donations collected across over 30 Goodwill thrift stores in the region, providing timely assistance as the colder months approach.

How to Participate

General admission tickets for the meal are available free of charge, allowing everyone a chance to partake in this joyful occasion. Community organizations wishing to provide tickets for their members can complete a brief request form to distribute them.

Support Opportunities

For those interested in contributing further, various sponsorship opportunities are available. Interested parties can reach out to Jonathan Balog for details via email at [email protected]

Resource Fair

In tandem with the dinner, a Resource Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This fair is designed to connect Baltimoreans who are unemployed, underemployed, or facing challenges in the workforce, offering them vital access to job training information, résumé preparation assistance, and health resources. It aims to empower participants towards greater stability and success.

Conclusion

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake has a mission to help individuals secure and retain employment, fostering empowered, independent lives. Annually, they support over 58,000 individuals facing employment barriers, illustrating their commitment to community service with the motto, "Not a charity, but a chance."

For further details about the event, visit goodwillches.org/Thanksgiving. Let's come together this Thanksgiving to share in love, gratitude, and community support, reminding ourselves of the power of compassion during the holiday season.